I'm going to be changing out my ball joints soon and thought I might as well change out everything else while I'm in there. After reading alot of posts on this subject here's what I've come up with:

1. Ball Joints
2. Radius Arm Bushings
3. Steering Joints
4. Tie Rods

I don't know what all these are or do, but I'm going to make an attempt. I've worked on the back end of another vehicle before, so hopefully I can figure it out. I've got my Chilton manual and this website for the ball joints.

http://www.off-road.com/ford/bigbroncos/tech/balljoint.html

I also think I'll go with good parts from MOOG or www.performanceunlimited.com.

I need to figure out what to buy before hand to make it easier. I read about a kit for removing the ball joints that made the job alot easier. Anyone know where to get this.

Any other info(other websites with a step through?), advice, suggestions on other stuff to change out or parts to buy would be appreciated.

Brian
1988 Eddie Bauer 351 EFI

 

Don't forget U-Joints while you are in there.

 

For a ball joint press go to harborfright.com you can find one for dana 44 front ends for about $60.00. The same tool from brand name tool suppliers can run upwards of $300.00. Sure its made in china but your only going to use it once and stuff it in box to collect dust.By the way this is a job that may be best done by a experienced local shop. :-X12 Good luck Hooter91bronco

 

I know I should probably take it to the shop and I have the money, but I have a friend that's done it before and I really want to "know" my Bronco. I've fixed alot of stuff and really enjoy it. I totally rebuilt my S-10 pickup in high school and it was cool. Replaced the whole back end, cab, bed, doors, everything but the front end and engine.

If I mess it up I can always take it in. Plus, saving $300 a wheel is worth it I think.

You don't learn unless you try

Any other suggestions?
Brian

 

If you replace the ball joints DEFINITELY replace the outer u-joints on the axle shafts. I mean since your going to be in there anyway. It will save you alot of time later.

Brian

 

Sounds like you're gettin' the list together! Definitly replace the u-joints on the axle. Of course, do the wheel bearings too.

NOTE: When going through the front of my 83', as needed, I paid a fairly reputable shop to install the ball joints. Much to my dismay, 6 months later, the local Ford dealership discovered a little problem. The lock nut was loose on one, and when they tightened it, the "new" ball joint froze up. Aparentally the "reputable" mechanic had fudged up the joint, gettin' it in, and let it go out the door like that, instead of fixing it right!

Needless to say, I don't go to him anymore; but it's also a clue as to the difficulty in replacing these things!

Good luck, learn lot's, and have fun! :-X12

 

I heard you can "rent" a ball joint press from Autozone for a deposit. If you bring it back you get your money back. Is this true, and if so are there other tools I need to buy? I remember reading about something you can buy that really makes getting the ball joints out easy, but can't remember.

Brian
88 351 EFI

 

Also consider an axle pivot pushing and sway bar bushings. Go polyurethane on these and the radius arm bushings. You'll thank yourself later. On the wheel bearings, go with inner and outer as well as the inner spindle bearings (mine were powder when I pulled them). If you've ever wanted to upgrade hubs, as well, now's the time (you can get the chrome and brass Warn Premium's for around $75.00 per pair). Definitely change the U-Joints. Here's a thought.... you may want to price out taking your axle shafts and spindles to a shop and have them press out the old U and ball joints. Definitely much cheaper than having the whole job done, and you may thank yourself, again. I know I had a U-joint that was so frozen, I was happy to have the shop do it. I know my other suggestions have raised the price tag, but consider comparing this figure to having the ball joints, alone, serviced at your local shop. I was able to justify the above named parts as well as new shocks and springs, as the total bill came to less than the ball joint job by itself, with myself providing the labor. I never knew the truck could ride and handle as well!

 

Hi, autozone, and checker "rent" the tools to do most jobs. they "sell" you the tool and then return your "purchase" price when you return it.
A couple of things to do during the overhaual. Put the new parts in the freezer, that shrinks them a little bit. Then when ready to install, heat up the receiver area with a propane torch for a few seconds, that expands. Then when you put in the new parts it is just like they did at the factory. A perfect fit.